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Winter Homestead Happenings

 There has been no more snowfall this very chilly day, and by chilly I mean a wind-chill of 14 degrees.  Snow is on the ground, but no more snow in the forecast for now anyway.  It's slippery out for sure.


My lovely ladies have started to lay again, after a much shorter (but still long) molting hiatus, compared to last fall.  They love their new coop.  They have more room, more roosts, more light and more protection from the predators.  It only took us 3 years to complete it ha ha!  Photos to share soon.  We are actually considering on keeping the old coop and using it for the actual "brooder" now.  We'll be adding more ladies to the clan, so we'll figure that out sooner than later.

I have not made all of our gardening plans for 2026, but I am putting in an order for some herb garden seeds.  

The rosemary and chive plants I brought indoors are still alive, but the rosemary is looking iffy (crossing my fingers, saying a prayer).  



I needed to purchase more amber bottles, as I have gifted so many of my own over the years, that we were completely out.  They will be used for strained extracts, tinctures, and infused oils.

I have added one book to our homesteading bookshelf.  I have a few more in my sights.  I'll get a photo of it for you soon.

I put out an offer to barter with anyone local that cans jelly.  I have the ingredients and a recipe, but due to doctor's orders, I am unable to can right now (lifting restrictions, which will seem forever for me, but temporary for a few months).  I had hoped to barter the ingredients for the jelly, but even one nearby acquaintance said "no" to the offer.

Prayer requests. . .

I typically do not share something like this, but I know there are many prayerful blog followers here, so if you don't see a post very soon, I am having surgery soon.  Lifting will be restricted even more after that during recovery.  I may drive my husband crazy, because if you you follow my blog, you know I do not "sit" around.  I will not be able to make or take a grave blanket to either of my parents graves this December, but will plan to go in the spring with new flowers.  Our other dilemma is how to get the snow shoveled and plowed.  We'll figure it out.

Also, prayer request for a friend Lisa B, who her husband just lost his job so they have no health insurance.  She is due to have a surgery next Feb.

Winter Homestead Happenings  ©  December 2025 by Kristina at Pioneer Woman at Heart



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Comments

Carol said…
I completely understand what it is like to have surgery and not be able to do things. It is awful! I have learned a lot of patience in the past two years, and I would say that I am much better at being a patient now. I will pray for you and Lisa.
December 4, 2025 at 9:58 AM
Betsy said…
I'll definitely be praying for you. This isn't a fun time to have to have surgery. I know. I had a hysterectomy years ago the day after Christmas.
Glad the chickens are laying again. I like your egg holder. :-)
Blessings,
Betsy
December 4, 2025 at 3:46 PM
Jackie said…
I will remember you in my prayers for a quick recovery from your surgery, and that the surgeon is watched over by God.

God bless.
December 4, 2025 at 7:57 PM
Faith said…
Kristine will keep you & Lisa B in my prayers. Those pink eggs are beautiful, I do wish we could have a few chickens where we live. City folk are not accomodating to that idea. Rest & Heal. Faith
December 5, 2025 at 8:12 AM
diane in northern wis said…
I'm praying for you and your upcoming surgery, and also sending up prayers for your friend. May all go very well. God bless you.
December 8, 2025 at 10:34 PM
Far Side of Fifty said…
Prayers for a successful surgery and a quick recovery!
December 11, 2025 at 5:39 PM
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